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Poison

Let’s face it, sometimes kids get into things that they probably shouldn’t. Here are a few tips to keep little explorers from finding their way into household items that could be dangerous. But just in case, we’ll also show you what to do if your child accidentally ingests something harmful.

The Hard Facts

Half of the 2 million calls to Poison Help Number in 2011 involved children ages 5 and under. In fact, 9 out of 10 poisonings occur at home.

Top Tips

Store all household products and cleaning solutions out of children’s sight and reach. Young kids are often eye-level with items under the kitchen and bathroom sinks.

Store poisonous items out of reach or use safety locks on cabinets within reach. These items also include detergent pods for the laundry and dishwasher. It only takes a few minutes, and it gives you one less thing to worry about.

Make sure that all medications, including vitamins and adult medicines, are stored out of reach and out of sight or children.

Put the toll-free number Poison Help Number (1-800-222-1222) into your home and cell phones. You should also post it near your phone or on your refrigerator for the babysitter. Hopefully you’ll never need it, but it’s nice to have just in case.

Resources

Each year in the United States, more than 2,200 children – or six kids a day – die from an injury in the home. Learn what parents are concerned about and what they do ̶ or don’t do ̶ to keep kids safe in the home.

Each year in the United States, more than 2,200 children – or six kids a day – die from an injury in the home. “Report to the Nation: Protecting Children in Your Home,” a report made possible with support from Nationwide, is based on a survey of 1,010 parents. It explores what parents are concerned about and what they do ̶ or don’t do ̶ to keep kids safe in the home.